Professor: Karniadakis Course format: Lecture Number of respondents: 6 Total Enrollment: 7 Class Composition: Froshs: 0 Sophs: 3 Jrs: 3 Srs: 1 Concs: 1 Non-Concs: 4 Don't Know: 0

Instructor Average: 1.31 Course Average: 1.53

"Topics in Scientific Computing" is an applied mathematics course with a focus on physical examples and visualization of math problems via efficient computer programs. Therefore, although the professor stresses fun, a good background in calculus and computer programming is helpful to master the skills learned in class.

Professor Karniadakis received rave reviews from all the students, most notably for his easygoing style. It would be common for the professor to ask students if they understood the material as class progressed, and stop to clarify if necessary. His lighthearted personality also complemented the very technical material.

Although there were weekly homework assignments, some students felt that more assignments would have been advantageous. In addition to the weekly problem sets, a take-home midterm and final exam were very appropriate to the material covered throughout the semester. On average, 3-4 hours were spent outside of class per week, allowing students to say this course had a light workload.

Most students were glad they signed up for this course, as it gave a good theoretical base within the field, as well as practical experience. Because of the interesting material, most students felt motivated after learning the basics to scientific computing.

If you are at all interested in pursuing a concentration dealing with applied mathematics or computer science, "Topics in Scientific Computing" is highly recommended.

View AM/0027 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.